Shannon Coomes joined Hill Fire Protection shortly after its formation and quickly set about rebuilding the team, upgrading talent, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Her efforts have propelled the company from an initial revenue of $3.6 million to an impressive $54.3 million in 2023, with the business on track for another record-breaking year in 2024.
Hill Fire Protection is a leading fire sprinkler contractor specializing in the installation, inspection and maintenance of fire protection systems. Since its founding in 2010, the company has grown exponentially, transforming under Coomes’ leadership into a premier name in the construction and fire protection industry.
Hill Fire Protection’s growth story is marked by strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of State Line Fire Systems in Northwest Indiana in 2021 and JCI’s sprinkler installation business in Indianapolis in 2022. These acquisitions expanded the company’s footprint into six additional states beyond Illinois and Indiana. Concurrently, Coomes has spearheaded organic growth in the Chicagoland area by investing in service and inspection capabilities and diversifying its market presence.
Coomes’ vision extends beyond revenue milestones. Hill Fire Protection became a certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) in 2024. As a generational strategist, she prioritizes understanding and engaging younger generations, ensuring a workplace culture that values input, accountability and development.
Through initiatives like bi-monthly town hall meetings, mentorship programs, and regular office visits, Coomes fosters open communication and a strong team dynamic. “I make it a point to check in with each office in person on a regular basis to get a pulse but also to allow for questions and insight,” she said.
An active industry and community advocate, Coomes is a member of Vistage, serves on the board of the Chicagoland Association of General Contractors, and is involved with Girls in the Game, where she has earned multiple accolades for her contributions. She has also represented Hill Fire Protection on numerous panels and podcasts, sharing her insights into leadership, growth and innovation.
Under Coomes’ guidance, Hill Fire Protection aims to reach $75 million in revenue within five years while further expanding geographically and doubling its service and direct-to-owner business. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in empowering her team, succession planning and continually evolving strategies to adapt to the changing demands of the industry.
“She has fostered a culture of empowerment and continuous learning, enabling employees to develop their skills and advance their careers,” said her staff. “Shannon’s role as a mentor to the next generation of leaders within the organization has been crucial, ensuring that strong, capable leadership is part of Hill Fire Protection’s legacy.”